The 2026 European Athletics Championships will place Alexander Stadium at the centre of global attention. Thousands of fans will travel to Perry Barr each day, making transport planning essential for anyone attending the event.
Whether you’re coming from Birmingham Airport, the city centre, or anywhere across the UK, this guide covers the fastest, safest, and most reliable ways to reach Alexander Stadium during Athletics 2026.
🚦 Where Is Alexander Stadium?
Location: Walsall Rd, Perry Barr, Birmingham B42 2LR
The stadium sits just north-west of Birmingham city centre and is easily accessible by road, rail, shuttle services, and chauffeur drop-off points.
Key Distances:
- Birmingham City Centre → Stadium: 15–20 minutes
- Birmingham Airport → Stadium: 25–30 minutes
- New Street Station → Stadium: 18–25 minutes
🛣️ Best Ways to Reach Alexander Stadium
🚗 1. Chauffeur or Taxi Drop-Off (Fastest & Most Reliable)
During major sporting events, Birmingham City Council typically designates priority lanes and dedicated drop-off zones for professional drivers. This makes chauffeur transfers the fastest door-to-gate option.
Benefits:
- No parking stress
- Guaranteed arrival window
- Direct stadium access
- Professional drivers familiar with event routes
👉 Internal link:
Birmingham Chauffeur Services
(Auto-selected as your primary service page)
🚌 2. Event Shuttle Buses (City Centre → Stadium)
Transport for West Midlands will run special shuttle buses during event days. These typically depart from:
- Birmingham New Street station
- Bullring / Moor Street
- City Centre fan zones
These services are frequent, affordable, and direct, but may be crowded at peak times.
🚆 3. Train to Perry Barr Station
Perry Barr Station is the closest rail link to the stadium, located roughly 1 mile away.
From the station:
- Walk: 15–20 minutes
- Shuttle bus: 5 minutes
- Taxi/chauffeur: 3 minutes
However, due to increased passenger numbers, expect queues and platform congestion.
🚌 4. Local Bus Routes
The following bus routes normally serve the stadium area:
- X51 – Birmingham to Walsall
- 51 – City Centre → Perry Barr
- 33 – Birmingham → Kingstanding → Perry Barr
TfWM will expand services during 2026.
👉 External high-authority link:
https://www.tfwm.org.uk/
(Official West Midlands transport authority)
🚙 5. Driving & Parking (Not Recommended During Event Week)
Limited on-site parking will be available, and some areas may be reserved for:
- Officials
- Broadcasters
- Teams
- Accessibility passes
Expect:
- Road closures around Walsall Road
- Diversions near the A34
- Restricted residential parking
Visitors arriving by car from afar should instead use:
Park & Ride Options
Large Park & Ride locations are expected on the outskirts of Birmingham with shuttle buses connecting directly to the stadium.
🧭 Best Routes to Alexander Stadium Based on Entry Point
✈️ From Birmingham Airport (BHX)
Distance: 25–30 minutes
Best option: Pre-booked chauffeur
Alternative: Train → New Street → shuttle bus
🚆 From Birmingham New Street Station
Distance: 18–25 minutes
Best option: Shuttle bus or taxi
Alternative: Train to Perry Barr station
🚗 From M6 Motorway (North & South)
Use exits for Perry Barr / Walsall Rd (A34)
Allow extra time due to event diversions.
🚌 From Birmingham City Centre Fan Zones
Dedicated shuttles will run every 5–10 minutes during peak times.
💡 Local Travel Tips for Athletics Fans
- Leave at least 60–90 minutes before your event session
- Expect increased security screenings
- Pre-book your return journey
- Check TfWM travel bulletins each morning
- Avoid attempting to park near the stadium
🌟 Why Chauffeur Transfers Are Ideal for Stadium Access
Chauffeur services reduce stress, especially for families, visitors with luggage, or VIP attendees. With guaranteed arrival windows and local driver knowledge, it’s the most reliable option during peak event hours.
👉 Internal link:
Online Chauffeur Booking – Luxe Transfers UK
🏁 Conclusion
Reaching Alexander Stadium during the 2026 European Athletics Championships requires planning — particularly during busy sessions like finals and opening ceremonies. Whether you prefer reliable chauffeur services, direct shuttle buses, or local rail connections, making decisions early ensures a smooth event experience.
For maximum comfort and punctuality, pre-booked chauffeur services remain the top recommendation.
❓ FAQs
1. What’s the easiest way to reach Alexander Stadium?
A pre-booked chauffeur or shuttle bus from the city centre.
2. Is parking available at the stadium?
Very limited. Park & Ride or chauffeur drop-off is recommended.
3. How far is the stadium from Birmingham city centre?
Around 15–20 minutes by car or shuttle.
4. Which station is closest to the stadium?
Perry Barr Station — approximately 1 mile away.
5. Are taxis reliable during the event?
Yes, but expect longer wait times. Chauffeurs provide guaranteed arrival slots.
